Nationals Shuffle Roster with Four Players on Injured List

The Washington Nationals’ 2025 MLB season has begun with a host of surprising roster changes and injury-related setbacks. As the team finalized its Opening Day lineup, they had to make some tough decisions.

Including placing four players on the injured list (IL), reconfiguring their bullpen, and shuffling key bench players. This post will highlight the impact of these developments, the players involved, and what these moves mean for the team’s roster strategy going forward.

Four Nationals Begin the Season on the Injured List

In a blow to their early-season plans, the Nationals announced that four players will start the 2025 season on the injured list. The most notable blow comes to the pitching staff, with three arms sidelined, while another injury disrupts the infield depth.

These challenges create ripple effects throughout the roster, giving opportunities to other players while testing the team’s depth.

Derek Law and Zach Brzykcy: Key Relievers Out Till Mid-April

Two of Washington’s right-handed relievers, Derek Law and Zach Brzykcy, find themselves on the 15-day IL. Law, battling forearm inflammation, has a timeline for return targeting April 8. This stemmed from an injury last season when he dealt with a flexor strain, though early indications suggest a quick recovery.

Brzykcy’s right quad strain, however, leaves a murkier return window.

Both absences put significant pressure on the bullpen, where consistency is key early in the season. The team will be relying on less experienced hurlers until veterans like Law and Brzykcy can return.

Andres Chaparro and Cade Cavalli: Infield and Starting Rotation Challenges

On the offensive side, infielder Andres Chaparro begins the year on the 10-day IL with an oblique strain. Oblique injuries can be particularly tricky for hitters, and the Nationals will proceed cautiously to ensure Chaparro doesn’t rush back.

His stint on the sidelines leaves a hole in Washington’s infield depth, requiring creative lineup solutions.

Meanwhile, highly touted right-hander Cade Cavalli landed on the 15-day IL as he continues to recover from Tommy John surgery. His placement was expected, and the Nationals hope to see him contribute later in the season as his rehab progresses.

DJ Herz Faces a Lengthy Recovery

The most concerning injury news revolves around DJ Herz, another right-handed pitcher, who was transferred from the 15-day IL to the 60-day IL due to a UCL tear. The severity of this injury could require Tommy John surgery, potentially sidelining Herz for a year or more.

For Washington, this is a long-term issue that complicates their pitching depth as they look to bolster the developmental pipeline.

Nationals Roster Adjustments: Who’s In and Who’s Out?

With these injuries in mind, the Nationals had to shuffle their roster to cover the gaps. The team made several notable moves that highlight their depth and willingness to give younger players opportunities. Here’s how the roster shakes up:

• Brad Lord: The Nationals selected Lord’s contract to fill an open roster spot, solidifying his role as a potential bullpen contributor. His impressive spring earned him a shot at the big leagues.
• Juan Yepez and Jackson Rutledge: While these players offered potential versatility, the Nationals opted to send them to Triple-A for additional seasoning. Yepez’s demotion is particularly significant, given his ability to cover both first base and the outfield.
• Bench Mix: The bench now features Riley Adams, Amed Rosario, Jose Tena, and Alex Call. While a bit lacking in experience, this group aims to provide situational hitting, pinch-running, and defensive flexibility.
• Final Bullpen Spots: In a competition among rookies, Orlando Ribalta and Brad Lord emerged victorious, earning the last bullpen slots due to strong spring showings.

How These Moves Impact the Season Ahead

The Nationals are approaching the 2025 season with a mix of optimism and caution. Injuries to key players, particularly in the pitching staff, raise early concerns about their ability to remain competitive in the NL East.

However, the silver lining is the opportunity for younger players like Brad Lord and Orlando Ribalta to gain valuable MLB experience.

Additionally, Washington’s emphasis on conservative rehab timelines for injured players, such as Derek Law and Andres Chaparro, suggests a focus on long-term health rather than short-term fixes. This strategy aligns with the team’s rebuilding mindset and their goal of developing a sustainable contender in the years to come.

Final Thoughts

While the Nationals’ Opening Day roster might not be what fans expected, this early adversity could build resilience for the team as the season progresses.

Injuries are part of the game, and how the club adapts and overcomes these challenges will shape their 2025 campaign.

For now, fans will be watching closely to see how the young talent steps up and how quickly the injured veterans can return to solidify the roster.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Nationals Place Four Players On Injured List